At a glance
| How it's secured | Caveat lodged on the property title |
|---|---|
| Loan size | $20,000 to $5,000,000 |
| Term | Short term, flexible |
| Valuation | Desktop valuation in many cases |
| Funding speed | As little as 24 hours |
How caveat loans work
A caveat is a notice on the land title that stops the property being sold or refinanced without the lender's consent. Because it can be lodged in hours and doesn't need your existing lender's permission, it's the quickest way to borrow against property.
That makes caveat loans the go-to for time-critical needs: an ATO garnishee, a settlement shortfall, a supplier who wants payment today or a purchase opportunity that won't wait.
Who it suits
- Urgent needs where a mortgage would take too long
- Owners with an existing home loan who don't want to refinance it
- Short-term needs with a clear exit, such as a sale, refinance or payout
- Borrowers with bad credit or ATO debt
How it works
- Check eligibility60 seconds online, with no credit score impact.
- Talk to a specialistWe confirm the amount, property and exit plan the same day.
- Get a written offerEvery cost set out clearly, often with just a desktop valuation.
- Sign and settleE-sign, we lodge the security, and funds land in as little as 24 hours.
What you'll need
- Photo ID for each borrower and guarantor
- Property address and who owns it
- What's owing on the property (if anything)
- The loan purpose and your exit plan
Not needed: No tax returns, financial statements, BAS or accountant letters.
A property developer bridging a delayed progress payment
A Gold Coast developer was waiting on a $400,000 progress payment that slipped by three weeks, with trades to pay on Friday. A caveat over a separately held investment property was lodged Wednesday and funded Thursday, and the loan was repaid when the payment landed.
Frequently asked questions
How fast can I get a caveat loan?
Caveat loans can be funded in as little as 24 hours. The main steps are confirming ownership and equity, issuing the offer, signing and lodging the caveat. Having your ID, rates notice and existing loan statement ready speeds everything up.
Can I get a caveat loan without a valuation?
Often, yes. For many properties we can rely on a desktop or automated valuation, which takes minutes rather than the days a full inspection needs. Larger loans or unusual properties may still need a full valuation.
What's the difference between a caveat loan and a second mortgage?
A caveat is a notice on the title. A second mortgage is a registered security that needs the first lender's consent. Caveats are faster to put in place. Second mortgages can suit longer terms and larger amounts. We'll tell you which fits your timeline.
Can I get a caveat loan with bad credit?
Yes. The loan is assessed mainly on the property's equity and your exit plan, so defaults, arrears and ATO debt don't rule you out.
Does it cost anything to apply?
No. There's no cost to apply or check your eligibility. All costs are set out in writing in your loan offer before you sign anything.
Will checking my eligibility affect my credit score?
No. Our 60-second eligibility check doesn't make a credit enquiry. A credit check is only done later, with your consent, if you decide to proceed.

